Unusual, and totally engrossingThe Puppet Barge is an intimate space with eight five-seat benches. It is the near-perfect (only those on the front row get an unobstructed view) space for this atmospheric, strangely gripping presentation.

The voice of Kenneth Griffith reads Coleridge’s mesmeric poem and a highly skilled team of unseen puppeteers and actors produce not merely movement but expression of the widely varied emotions summoned out of the depths
by Coleridge’s text.

Every now and then I would ask myself ‘Why are you so wrapped up in and moved by this?’ only to plunge immediately back into full absorption.

As the programme points out, Coleridge’s imitation of the ancient ballads is touched with primitive fear. It is also made more relevant than ever by environmental awareness.
But, I would think, such reflections come later. While you are watching you are held completely by the tale and it beautiful – but never undramatic – presentation.

About ReviewsGate

ReviewsGate is one of the longest running Reviews websites; it was started in 2001. To date it has a database of over 7000 reviews. They can all be searched. All our reviewers are experienced; we like our reviewers to have their own voice, but we pride ourselves on writing in good English. We work across the UK and in Ireland.